ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Field Ecologist Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

MNL

Construction Equipment Operator

Otsego, MN · On-site

$30/hr

Are you confident running dozers, skid loaders, and excavators in the field? Do you like working outdoors in a team setting where your craft contributes directly to ecological restoration? If so ...

MNL

Seasonal Construction Laborer

Otsego, MN · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This role is focused on hands-on field and labor work supporting ecological restoration projects. As a Field Tech, you'll work as part of a crew performing physical installation tasks under the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsField Ecologist JobsField Ecologist Jobs in Minnesota

Field Ecologist information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$24

$43

How much do field ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for field ecologist in Minnesota is $24.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.52 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a field ecologist do?

A Field Ecologist studies ecosystems and the interactions among plants, animals, and their environments, primarily through outdoor fieldwork. Their responsibilities often include collecting samples, monitoring wildlife, conducting surveys, and analyzing data to understand environmental changes and biodiversity. Field Ecologists may work for research institutions, government agencies, or conservation organizations, and their work is crucial for informing conservation efforts and environmental policy. The job often requires travel to different natural habitats and can involve working in challenging outdoor conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field ecologist?

To thrive as a Field Ecologist, you need a solid background in ecology or environmental science, strong observational and analytical skills, and usually at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with GPS devices, data collection software, GIS mapping systems, and sometimes statistical analysis tools like R is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, adaptability to challenging field conditions, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective teamwork, and reliable ecological research essential for conservation and environmental management.

What are some common challenges faced by field ecologists during data collection, and how are they typically addressed?

Field ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and equipment malfunctions while collecting data. These obstacles can impact the accuracy and completeness of their observations. To address these issues, ecologists usually plan for contingencies by carrying backup gear, using GPS for navigation, and scheduling data collection in optimal seasons. Teamwork and thorough risk assessments are also essential, ensuring safety and data integrity during fieldwork.

What is the difference between Field Ecologist vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectField EcologistWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in ecology, environmental science, or related fields; fieldwork experienceBachelor's or higher in biology, zoology, or related fields; research experience
Work EnvironmentOutdoor field sites, nature reserves, research stationsResearch labs, outdoor sites, conservation areas
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, research organizations, conservation groupsGovernment agencies, universities, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Field Ecologists and Wildlife Biologists work outdoors and require similar educational backgrounds. However, Field Ecologists focus more on conducting field surveys and environmental assessments, while Wildlife Biologists often emphasize studying animal populations and behaviors. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and interests in ecology and wildlife conservation.

Are field ecologists in high demand?

Field ecologists are in moderate demand, especially as environmental concerns increase and conservation efforts expand. Employment opportunities often depend on government agencies, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms, with skills in data collection, GIS, and ecological analysis being valuable. Job growth is steady but can vary by region and funding availability.

Do field ecologists make a lot of money?

Field ecologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as GIS or data analysis, can offer higher pay. Entry-level positions may pay less, especially in nonprofit or government sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Field Ecologist jobs in Minnesota?

For Field Ecologist jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Field Ecologist jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Field Ecologist jobs in Minnesota are:

Field Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Field Ecologist job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,954 per year, or $24 per hour.

Sr. Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager

Groundwater and Environmental Svcs.

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager & Office Lead to guide and manage our local environmental operations and our regional environmental/ ecological needs.

The primary focus of this position’s duties and responsibilities is on the technical aspects of diverse environmental and ecological projects. This individual provides principal project support activities, including work plan and proposal preparation, project resource management and scheduling, deadline tracking, budget evaluation and analysis, and technical editing and report finalization. This position also requires a local to regional field presence, while also including national presence on a large Ecological Team. The position requires daily management of project/site assigned staff. Under limited supervision, the Principal Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager & Office Lead plans, executes, supervises, and documents field aspects of highly complex ecological projects (permitting, ecological restoration, delineations, determinations, NEPA, etc.), support environmental remediation, and support construction observation, to include all aspects of post remediation ecological restoration, mitigation banking, nutrient banking, permitting, permitting support, reporting, etc. The individual in this position must be a multi-tasked, detail-oriented team player, and possess excellent skills in verbal and written communications, time management, organizational management, problem solving, decision making, and leadership. Applicants in the greater Minneapolis, Minnesota area are encouraged to apply.


Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to strategic planning and growth of ecological services
  • Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the local office
  • Oversee regional ecological assessments, surveys, and environmental impact studies
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to staff
  • Ensure high-quality project delivery, on time and within budget
  • Develop and maintain client relationships and support business development
  • Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, policies, and best practices
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on infrastructure and land-use projects

Qualifications & Experience

  • Degree in Ecology, Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Geology or related discipline
  • 15+ years of professional ecological (required) Extensive knowledge in 401/404 permitting, WOTUS Delineations, CWA, NEPA, ESA/T&E species, FERC, etc.) or other similarly aligned ecological disciplines- Stream Restoration, wetland restoration or other restoration discipline a plus
  • Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing projects
  • Strong knowledge of ecological laws, legislation and regulatory frameworks
  • Experience with field surveys, habitat assessments, and reporting
  • Interacts with other project support services (technical services, professional, engineering, administrative) and subcontractors to ensure all resources are in place for proper fieldwork execution
  • Mastery knowledge of applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to all field activities and relevant regulatory programs and the willingness to learn and master other state regulatory programs as necessary
  • Acts as the primary author for site work plans, proposals, and reports for highly complex scopes of work, including permits, NEPA/FERC documents, delineation reports, ecological restoration plans, compensatory migration plans and strategies, etc.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Adheres to client contract specifications in all field-related activities and informs project group of those specifications
  • Manages procurement of subcontractors and vendors for completion of project tasks, including subcontractor/vendor bid package development
  • Must complete annual refresher OSHA HAZWOPER training and be able to wear required PPE
  • Must maintain a valid drivers’ license and acceptable driving record

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong leadership and organizational skills
  • Strategic thinking with a solutions-focused approach
  • High attention to detail and scientific rigor
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
  • Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship

Our comprehensive benefits include: Hybrid workforce, medical, dental, vision, prescription card, 401k, FSA, LTD, STD, New Parent Leave, 529 CollegeBound Fund, Tuition Assistance, Bonus Plan, and more.

Groundwater & Environmental Services, Inc. (GES) believes that diversity and inclusion among our staff is critical to our success, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. At GES, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.